The module introduces the fundamental and quantum mechanical principles of nuclear physics, nuclear interactions, nuclear decay and the interaction of nuclear radiations with matter. It extends this knowledge to developing the fundamental principles of controlled nuclear fission and fusion, with an emphasis on production of nuclear power. Some allusion to the uses of these principles in biology and medicine together with a discussion of the fundamentals of radiation protection is included.
Fundamental Considerations:
Radiation interaction mechanisms (photoelectric effect, Compton effect, pair production, Cerenkov radiation). Principles of quantum mechanics. The nuclear radius. Nuclide mass and abundance. Nuclear binding energy. Nuclear parity, electromagnetic moments and excited states. Forces between nucleons (proton-proton, neutron-proton and neutron-neutron). Nuclear models (lquid drop model).
Nuclear decay and radioactivity:
Alpha decay systematics, angular momentum and parity. Fermi theory of beta decay, angular momentum and parity selection (neutrino physics, double beta decay and nonconservation of parity). Gamma decay, energetics, distribution, polarization, angular momentum and parity selection rules. Detection of ionising radiations. Nuclear spins and moments.
Nuclear reactions, fission and fusion:
Experimental techniques, scattering and reaction cross-sections. Absorption and moderation of neutrons, neutron capture. Nuclear fission (controlled fission reactions). Nuclear fusion (controlled fusion reactions). Accelerators. Particle detectors.
Students will learn through lectures, use of computer based learning software (including online quizzes / problem solving), tutorials (in the form of problem solving workshops) and laboratory practicals. In addition use of a flipped-lecture approach will incoroprate interactive problem solving and peer-learning in-class.
Self directed learning is encouraged using tutorial questions, use of on-line resources and quizzes.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 100 |